Standout Indie Game Stray Gods Takes Australia by Storm
In recent years, Australia has seen a surge in the production of exceptional indie games such as Cult of the Lamb, Unpacking, and Untitled Goose Game. Stray Gods, a role-playing musical developed in Melbourne, is the latest addition to this impressive lineup. Since its release in August, Stray Gods has not only garnered critical acclaim but also took home the Game of the Year award at the Australian Game Developer Awards. The game also received recognition for Excellence in Accessibility and Excellence in Music.
Co-founded by Liam Esler, David Gaider, and Elie Young, Summerfall Studios is the creative force behind Stray Gods. Esler described the studio’s vision for the game as a character-driven project that aimed to differentiate itself from others in the genre. This unique approach has resonated with players and industry peers, solidifying Stray Gods’ success.
A Long Road to Success
For Gaider, a seasoned developer known for his work at Beamdog and BioWare, the journey to Stray Gods’ success was met with significant challenges. Due to unforeseen circumstances brought on by the pandemic, Gaider was unable to join the rest of the Summerfall team in Melbourne until 2022. However, the recognition and accolades received at the AGDAs became a significant milestone for Gaider. Winning Game of the Year was particularly special, as it marked the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.
Cultivating a Unique Studio Culture
A defining aspect of Summerfall Studios is its distinct company culture. The team places great importance on creating an inclusive and supportive environment for their employees. They prioritize diversity in their hiring process, seeking to add individuals who bring unique perspectives and experiences. The goal is to foster an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions and contributing to the studio’s creative process.
The Challenges of Launch
While Stray Gods’ launch was met with widespread acclaim from players, the co-founders admit that the process itself was emotionally taxing. Esler describes it as his “least favorite part of making a game,” highlighting the pressure and self-critical nature it entails. However, the overwhelmingly positive response from players made it all worthwhile. Despite differing opinions on certain aspects of the game, such as the music, Stray Gods’ impact as a unique video game experience remains undeniable.
Pioneers of a New Genre
Stray Gods’ branching, interactive musical format sets it apart from other games in the industry. The Summerfall team acknowledges that they were trailblazers in this regard, facing numerous challenges along the way. They are hopeful that their success will inspire other developers to explore and innovate within this new genre. The studio’s ultimate goal is not to be confined to creating solely musical games but rather to continue pushing boundaries and delivering compelling and character-centric experiences.